The forecast is for strong to gale force winds for a few days starting from Friday – darn! We were intending to drop into Hamilton or Airlie soon anyway to replenish supplies so it is rather timely. We’ve still got today with pleasant sailing!
In the absence of the promised mooring buoys off Lindeman Resort we anchored and went ashore. This is another deserted resort. It was closed in January 2012 citing the downturn caused by the GFC and cyclone damage. White Horse Ltd, a Chinese subsidiary purchased it soon after and currently has a proposal in for 335 suites and villas across 5 precincts including 5 and 6 star accommodation, golf course, marina, upgraded airfield, etc, etc. At least this will be a resort that lots of people will be able to enjoy one day, unlike Brampton’s plans.
The resort has 3 caretakers who keep the grounds in reasonable condition. The buildings aren’t being maintained and one of the caretakers told us the basic infrastructure for water, sewerage, electricity is in poor condition. The resort will be bulldozed – but goodness knows when they’ll start works.
The empty beach on such a perfect day tells its own story of this resort.
We were keen to walk to the top of Mt Oldfield, having been told the views are very good. The caretaker directed us to the beginning of it at the far end of the airfield. Another enjoyable walk of about 8km. The 360 degree views from the grassy knoll at the top gave us almost a bird’s eye view of the ocean and islands surrounding Lindeman. The islands seem to float in the subtly graded blues of the ocean and sky.
Panorama from Mt Oldfield.
To view our photos from Lindeman Resort and Mt Oldfield CLICK HERE
Back at the boat we up-anchored and headed towards Gulnare Inlet, not far north of Hamilton Island. This is a narrow and fairly shallow Inlet that is very well protected from winds from nearly every direction. The sailing was enjoyable with Ray on the helm. Passing between Hamilton and Dent Islands the waters were really weird – like a washing machine, but that soon passed and after carefully following the geographical leads into Gulnare Inlet we anchored and prepared for a very peaceful night. Ingrid and Ken (On the Wing) were also anchored there but we didn’t catch up with them